Taxi men loseearnings whilstwaiting for PSV

SDLP MLA Pat Ramsey asked the Minister what “provisions are in place to speed up the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licensing process, given that taxi drivers are losing earnings during a waiting period; and what immediate provisions he can put in place to speed up the process, particularly in the Foyle area.”

Mr Attwood urged taxi drivers to “apply for public service vehicle licences, including taxi plates, well in advance of the expiry of their existing licences.”

He stated: “Provided this advice is followed, it should be possible to have vehicles tested and licences issued prior to the expiry of existing licences.

“DVA issues reminders to taxi drivers at least six weeks prior to the expiry of their licences and information contained, both on application forms and on existing licences, advises drivers to make application well in advance of when the licence is needed.

“The process for issuing licences and taxi plates is working well throughout Northern Ireland and the set targets for the issue of such licences are constantly being met.”